Design concepts of solar thermoelectric generators in space applicationsSeveral thermoelectric technologies have been examined as to their suitability for use in a solar thermoelectric generator (STG) as a nonpropulsive power source for space applications. The results show that of all the presently available thermoelectric technologies, i.e., lead telluride, bismuth telluride, selenide, and silicon-germanium alloys, the latter type provides the optimum STG. Detailed results are presented on the performance and configurational characteristics of various silicon-germanium alloy STGs, including the performance of such STGs as a function of time in a Mercury orbit and the orbit of Mercury around the sun. It is shown that an STG design based on the use of silicon germanium alloy thermoelectric material, using multiple high voltage thermopiles with individual solar concentrators, presents the optimum combination of technology and configuration for minimizing power source mass. Additional concepts studied and discussed are the flat plate individual thermopile type and single concentrator compact thermopile type. The STG possesses an attractive potential for this application and represents a useful addition to the family of power sources for consideration in various space applications.
Document ID
19790039599
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Raag, V. (Syncal Corp. Sunnyvale, CA, United States)
Hankins, L. (Syncal Corp. Sunnyvale, Calif., United States)
Swerdling, M. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1978
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: International Conference on Thermoelectric Energy Conversion